Director: Centre for Cancer Research

About the role

The University of Cape Town's Faculty of Health Sciences is seeking a Director for the Centre for Cancer Research (CCR), emerging from the Faculty's Cancer Research Initiative. The Director provides strategic leadership, secures funding to expand and sustain the Centre, develops research-enabling platforms, supports researchers, promotes community engagement and ensures research that informs policy and improves cancer prevention, diagnosis and management in Africa and globally. The appointment is at Professor or Associate Professor level, on a five-year contract.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and management of the CCR as it transitions from the Cancer Research Initiative
• Secure funding and resources for the Centre
• Lead the development and maintenance of cancer research-enabling platforms
• Oversee grant proposals and fundraising initiatives to sustain and expand the Centre's programmes
• Develop and implement a research capacity development strategy with relevant stakeholders
• Establish and strengthen collaborations with academic institutions, healthcare facilities, government agencies, NGOs and industry partners locally and globally
• Engage with policymakers to turn research findings into evidence-based policies for cancer prevention and control
• Create a community engagement platform enabling UCT researchers to take part in cancer research
• Enhance the Centre's reputation through quality research and communicate it to the public and scientific community
• Develop and support interdisciplinary research training courses for researchers and students
• Work towards URC accreditation of the Centre

Required profile

• PhD or MBChB, or equivalent degree in a relevant field (e.g. oncology, epidemiology, molecular biology, public health, global health)
• At least 5 years of experience in cancer research, including leadership in an academic or research setting
• Proven track record in securing research funding and knowledge of the national and international funding environment
• Experience engaging with policymakers, funding agencies and international organisations
• Advantage: business management qualification, knowledge of university systems, and a record of securing donor funding

To apply, candidates must submit a CV, a motivational letter addressing the requirements, proof of professional registration, three referee names with contact details, and their highest qualification ID or passport. Shortlisted candidates may be asked for competency and medical assessments; the closing date is 29 November 2026.